Nurture Yourself

We all go through bad times. Some times we go through really difficult things that threaten to take over our lives. These are the times when we need the most help. Often we look  outside ourself for help; which IS a good thing to do: support and understanding from loved ones, friends, and even acquaintances and strangers can help us get through rough moments as much as anything.

But don’t forget to take care of yourself as well.

Sometimes the little things really can make a difference. I am one of those people who finds some comfort in work; so I try to forget my troubles by throwing myself into something. I also, however, like the little things in life that make a difference. Here are some that matter to me and can help me through a bump in the road:

Treat Yourself — Peanut M&Ms anyone?

A nose to nose commiseration with That Black-Haired Beauty (for any who might not follow this blog, that’s my dog). Getting down on her level (the floor) and saying “Hi” I think makes us both feel better.

Organizing things — understand I am NOT a very good “keep things in order and in their right places” kind of person; just the opposite actually — but putting things in order once in awhile, especially if I’m struggling, helps keep things in perspective.

Cooking — I am a cook and I even have a cooking blog: The Irreverent Gourmet —

http://theirreverentgourmet.blogspot.com/2010/02/beginning.html. Buying food and cooking (and then eating) are great for me.

Communicating with an old friend.

Remembering good times.

Doing something nice for someone else.

Shopping (for me that’s usually food), but tools are high on my list too.

Enjoying a moment, instead of letting it go by. Note: the sun sets every day!

Reading a good book (or ten).

Listening to favorite music — that’s certainly helped get me through  a good many difficult spots!

Working out — something about doing something physical is recuperative for me (and doesn’t hurt this old bod either).

Saying something nice to someone.

Sharing hugs — I once hugged an old lady in a wheelchair in the hospital because she looked like she could use it even more than me.

You know what works for you. Don’t wallow in difficulties; do something. One way or another these things all pass and I’m all for making the most of as much of the pathway to what comes next as arriving there.

Best,

Joe Koob

P.S. Did I mention Peanut M&Ms?